In 1983, Microsoft Word was first introduced, Tom Brokaw became the lead anchor for NBC Nightly News, Ronald Reagan presided over the United States, Return of the Jedi debuted at the box office, and Sally Ride became the first American woman in space.

Twenty-four years later many things have changed, improved, and grown. So it is with the Marriott School of Management. More and more students are vying to be accepted into our nationally ranked programs. We now employ 38 percent more full-time faculty and educate 43 percent more students—not including an additional 650 earning business minors.

When the Tanner Building was completed, it was the first BYU building funded entirely by donor contributions. Most of the funds came from National Advisory Council (NAC) members under the leadership of then Dean Merrill J. Bateman.

Nearly three years ago Chris Lansing, then NAC chair, and I gave a stewardship report to Bill Marriott. We reported on the school's increasing national prominence, the students' ethical reputation, and the quality faculty. While we only hinted at our space needs, Bill was exceptionally perceptive. A short time later, Bill's brother and NAC member Dick Marriott called with the heartwarming news that the Marriott Foundation would contribute $18 million to help us build an addition.

In September 2005 BYU's Board of Trustees approved the addition as an official priority. With the Marriotts' magnificent lead gift, the NAC voted to shoulder the additional funds. At that time we roughly estimated it would require $10 million more. However, upon completing the architectural work and receiving construction bids, the additional funding needed was $25 million.

Many of our NAC members quickly stepped forward. Church leaders and the Tanner family approved a major gift from the Nathan Eldon Tanner Trust. We also invited our faculty and staff to give what they could; they have now contributed more than $200,000.

All during this time our work with the architectural firm FFKR has been a most positive experience. Its employees have helped us design a building that will focus on the students' educational experience. The 76,000-gross-square-foot expansion will add twelve modern classrooms, quiet study areas, team study rooms, and student gathering places. It will improve the technological capabilities in classrooms and labs. The project will also include a much-needed parking structure.

Construction is expected to conclude by late summer 2008. We extend our deepest thanks to all who have contributed so generously. We have raised $38 million but still need approximately $5 million more. Please help us complete the funding of this important addition. Enclosed with this magazine is a donation slip and envelope. Any contribution will help us reach our goal.

On behalf of future BYU students, thanks for making this addition possible. It will enable the Marriott School to better prepare students with the finest management education rooted in the highest ethical standards and an abiding faith in gospel principles.

Sincerely,


Ned C. Hill
Dean